RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 <em>Intravenous</em> iloprost bridging to orthotopic liver transplantation in portopulmonary hypertension
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP 703
OP 707
DO 10.1183/09031936.04.00133203
VO 24
IS 4
A1 S. Minder
A1 M. Fischler
A1 B. Muellhaupt
A1 M.P. Zalunardo
A1 R. Jenni
A1 P-A. Clavien
A1 R. Speich
YR 2004
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/24/4/703.abstract
AB Portopulmonary hypertension (PPHTN) is associated with poor prognosis and high perioperative mortality after orthotopic liver transplantation. This study documents the first case of a patient with PPHTN who was successfully bridged to orthotopic liver transplantation with i.v. iloprost, a stable prostacyclin analogue. The PPHTN had resolved completely 4 months after successful transplantation. In conclusion, portopulmonary hypertension is a relative contraindication to orthotopic liver transplantation, which should be attempted only if pulmonary haemodynamics improve with prostanoids. In this context, iloprost may be a valuable alternative to epoprostenol.